Kangpokpi: A five-day Entrepreneurship Development Workshop: Micro-Financing and Business Incubation for Tribal Entrepreneurs kicked off at LNC Hotel, Kangpokpi on Saturday. The workshop, scheduled from March 14 to 19 is organised by the Tribal Research Institute (TRI), Department of Tribal Affairs and Hills, Government of Manipur, in collaboration with Oasis College, Kangpokpi.
The inaugural programme was graced by Rangnamei Rang Peter, Director of Tribal Affairs & Hills and TRI, Manipur as the Chief Guest, while Ambassador Gautam Mukhopadhyay, Indian Foreign Service (Retd.) and Convenor of the Sadar Hills Green Movement, graced the occasion as the Guest of Honour.
In his address, the Chief Guest encouraged the trainees to actively participate in the workshop and emphasised the importance of entrepreneurship among tribal communities. He urged the participants to raise queries and make the most of the five-day training programme to enhance their knowledge and skills. He also congratulated the six selected IDP Entrepreneur Awardees for their resilience and determination.
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Speaking on the occasion, Ambassador Gautam Mukhopadhyay highlighted the need for promoting sustainable agro-entrepreneurship without damaging forests and the environment. He cited examples of successful branding of local products such as Kachai Lemon in Ukhrul and Lakadong Ginger in Meghalaya, and encouraged tribal communities to similarly brand their indigenous products, such as Bethu from Bekan.
He emphasised the importance of value addition so that local products can reach markets beyond the state and even international markets. He also stressed that tribal communities should become producers and suppliers rather than depending on products from outside regions.
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In his keynote address, Analjyoti Basu shared his extensive practical experience in entrepreneurship development. He noted that every problem also presents an opportunity, and urged tribal communities to transform challenges into opportunities to generate income and create sustainable livelihoods.
During the programme, the Chief Guest and other dignitaries presented Appreciation Certificates and cash prizes to six promising entrepreneurs who had no prior experience in business but were compelled to start small enterprises for survival following the Meitei–Kuki-Zo conflict in May 2023.
The awardees include Hatneineng Hangshing, K. Songlung – Laizon Enterprise; B. Sineo Vaiphei, Kamuching Village – Hope Initiative; Nemkhoting Lotjem, K. Geljang – Tina Rice Hotel; Mangboi Vaiphei, Phainom Village – Ch. Ngairoukim Florist; Nengjahat Haokip, National Games Village, Imphal – Eden’s Food Stall; and Lhaijaneng Khongsai, Khongsai Veng, Imphal – Tea Stall.